Getting high in Merimbula

Merimbula’s CBD streetscape could look very different in the future if draft design guidelines are given the green light.

Merimbula’s CBD streetscape could look very different in the future if draft design guidelines are given the green light.

Merimbula’s Market Street could look very different in years to come.

Merimbula’s CBD streetscape could look very different in the future if draft design guidelines are given the green light.Height levels have remained virtually stagnant for the last 30 plus years, which may have hindered development, but now council’s proposed changes could hold prospects for a rejuvenated streetscape.

In a break from the current CBD heights of 7.5m, 10m and 14m for sites such as Palmer Street carpark and north of Merimbula Drive, heights of 10m, 13m and 16m are proposed.

The 16m or four storey development would be selective in location to avoid over shadowing and disruption of views and the suggestion is that it would contain a mix of commercial and residential use.

While the current levels may have constrained design, it is considered that increased height levels would allow for adoption of modern, good quality design principles.

Council at its meeting on May 28 resolved to place on exhibition draft design guidelines for the CBD’s of the Bega Valley Shire.

"The draft guidelines are in response to council’s previous decision to increase height limits in parts of the CBDs to facilitate good quality design and provide flexibility,” said council planner Keith Tull.

"To accompany these height increases, council has developed draft design guidelines for 2, 3 and 4 storey development within the shire’s business zones.

"The draft design guidelines will ensure that commercial and mixed use developments are able to maximise available space while complementing the existing and desired characters of the CBD areas of Bega Valley Shire.”